Disconnect the negative battery cable and disable the airbag system. Remove the dashboard trim panels and the center console, followed by the instrument cluster and the glove box. Disconnect the passenger's side airbag electrical connector and remove the audio unit from the center of the dashboard. For access, remove the driver's knee bolster, then take out the nuts and bolts securing the steering column and lower it away from the instrument panel. A number of electrical connectors must be disconnected to remove the instrument panel; most are designed to fit only one matching connector, but if there is any doubt, mark them with masking tape and a marking pen before disconnecting. For 2006 and earlier models, remove all bolts holding the instrument panel to the body, noting that 2004 through 2006 panels have a different design with some center mounting bolts in different locations. Once all bolts are removed, lift the panel up, pull it away from the windshield, and take it out through the driver's door opening. For 2007 and later models, remove both instrument panel side covers and windshield pillar trim panels by prying them off with a plastic trim tool or a tape-wrapped screwdriver. Pry up the light sensor, disconnect its wiring, and remove it. Disconnect the passenger's airbag and driver's knee bolster airbag wiring, then remove the instrument panel mounting fasteners, ensuring all eight bolts are accounted for before attempting to remove the instrument panel. With assistance, pull the instrument panel rearward and guide it out of the passenger's door opening. Installation is the reverse of removal, and the steering column mounting bolts should be tightened to the specified torque.
